Jetting Additive Manufacturing Technologies in 2025: Unveiling Breakthroughs, Market Dynamics, and the Road to 2030. Explore How Jetting is Shaping the Future of Advanced Manufacturing.
- Executive Summary: Key Findings and Strategic Insights
- Market Overview: Defining Jetting Additive Manufacturing Technologies
- 2025 Market Size and Growth Forecast (2025–2030): CAGR of 18.7%
- Competitive Landscape: Leading Players and Emerging Innovators
- Technology Deep Dive: Inkjet, Binder Jetting, and Material Jetting Advances
- Application Analysis: Aerospace, Healthcare, Automotive, and Beyond
- Regional Trends: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World
- Investment & Funding Landscape: Startups, M&A, and Venture Capital
- Challenges and Barriers: Technical, Regulatory, and Supply Chain Issues
- Future Outlook: Disruptive Trends and Opportunities Through 2030
- Strategic Recommendations for Stakeholders
- Sources & References
Executive Summary: Key Findings and Strategic Insights
Jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, encompassing material jetting and binder jetting processes, have emerged as pivotal solutions in the evolution of 3D printing for both prototyping and end-use production. In 2025, the sector is characterized by rapid advancements in printhead precision, material diversity, and process scalability, enabling manufacturers to address a broader range of industrial applications. Key findings indicate that jetting AM is increasingly favored for its ability to deliver high-resolution, multi-material, and full-color parts, particularly in industries such as aerospace, healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods.
Strategic insights reveal that leading companies, including Stratasys Ltd., 3D Systems, Inc., and voxeljet AG, are investing heavily in R&D to enhance throughput and material compatibility. The integration of advanced software for process control and quality assurance is further driving adoption, as manufacturers seek to minimize post-processing and ensure repeatability. Notably, the expansion of certified materials—ranging from photopolymers to metals and ceramics—has unlocked new opportunities for functional prototyping and direct part production.
Market dynamics in 2025 are shaped by the growing demand for mass customization and on-demand manufacturing. Jetting AM’s capability to produce complex geometries without tooling, combined with reduced lead times, is particularly attractive for short-run and bespoke applications. However, challenges remain in scaling up for high-volume production, especially regarding cost efficiency and material waste management. Industry collaborations, such as those between HP Inc. and major material suppliers, are addressing these barriers by developing open material platforms and automated post-processing solutions.
In summary, jetting additive manufacturing technologies are transitioning from niche prototyping tools to mainstream production assets. Companies that prioritize investment in material innovation, process automation, and digital workflow integration are poised to capture significant value. As the ecosystem matures, strategic partnerships and continued technological refinement will be critical in overcoming current limitations and unlocking the full potential of jetting AM for industrial-scale applications.
Market Overview: Defining Jetting Additive Manufacturing Technologies
Jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies represent a family of 3D printing processes that fabricate objects by selectively depositing droplets of build material, typically layer by layer, to create complex geometries. Unlike extrusion-based or powder bed fusion methods, jetting technologies rely on precise control of liquid or semi-liquid materials, which are solidified through curing or cooling mechanisms. The most prominent jetting AM processes include Material Jetting (MJ), Binder Jetting (BJ), and Nanoparticle Jetting (NPJ), each with distinct material compatibilities and application areas.
Material Jetting, exemplified by systems from Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems, Inc., utilizes printheads similar to those in inkjet printers to deposit photopolymers or waxes, which are then cured using ultraviolet (UV) light. This technology is renowned for its high resolution, multi-material capabilities, and ability to produce full-color prototypes, making it popular in industries such as dental, jewelry, and product design.
Binder Jetting, pioneered by companies like ExOne Company (now part of Desktop Metal), involves the selective deposition of a liquid binding agent onto a powder bed, typically composed of metals, ceramics, or sand. The resulting “green” parts require post-processing, such as sintering or infiltration, to achieve final mechanical properties. Binder Jetting is valued for its scalability, speed, and suitability for producing complex metal parts and sand molds for casting.
Nanoparticle Jetting, a more recent innovation led by XJet Ltd., employs inkjet printheads to deposit suspensions of nanoparticles, such as ceramics or metals, which are subsequently consolidated through thermal processes. This approach enables the production of highly detailed, dense parts with fine feature resolution, expanding the potential for additive manufacturing in advanced ceramics and metal applications.
The jetting AM market is characterized by ongoing advancements in printhead technology, material formulations, and process automation. As of 2025, the sector is witnessing increased adoption in end-use part production, particularly in healthcare, aerospace, and automotive industries, driven by the demand for customization, rapid prototyping, and reduced lead times. The competitive landscape features established players and innovative startups, all contributing to the evolution and diversification of jetting-based additive manufacturing solutions.
2025 Market Size and Growth Forecast (2025–2030): CAGR of 18.7%
The jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies market is poised for robust expansion in 2025, with industry analysts projecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.7% through 2030. This growth trajectory is underpinned by increasing adoption across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods, where the demand for high-precision, multi-material, and full-color 3D printing is accelerating. Jetting AM technologies, including material jetting and binder jetting, are particularly valued for their ability to produce complex geometries with fine detail and smooth surface finishes, making them attractive for both prototyping and end-use part production.
Key players such as Stratasys Ltd., 3D Systems Corporation, and voxeljet AG are investing heavily in research and development to enhance print speed, material compatibility, and scalability. These advancements are expected to further drive market penetration, especially as industries seek to streamline supply chains and enable on-demand manufacturing. The healthcare sector, for instance, is leveraging jetting AM for patient-specific implants and surgical guides, while the automotive industry is utilizing the technology for lightweight components and rapid prototyping.
Geographically, North America and Europe are anticipated to maintain leading positions in market share due to established manufacturing infrastructure and early adoption of advanced AM technologies. However, the Asia-Pacific region is forecasted to witness the fastest growth, fueled by expanding industrialization, government initiatives supporting digital manufacturing, and increasing investments from regional manufacturers.
The market’s projected CAGR of 18.7% reflects not only technological advancements but also the growing recognition of jetting AM’s potential to reduce lead times, minimize material waste, and enable mass customization. As more companies integrate jetting technologies into their production workflows, the market is expected to surpass previous growth estimates, solidifying its role as a transformative force in the broader additive manufacturing landscape.
Competitive Landscape: Leading Players and Emerging Innovators
The competitive landscape of jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies in 2025 is characterized by a dynamic interplay between established industry leaders and a wave of emerging innovators. Jetting AM, which encompasses processes such as material jetting, binder jetting, and nanoparticle jetting, has seen significant advancements in print speed, material diversity, and resolution, driving its adoption across industries from aerospace to healthcare.
Among the leading players, Stratasys Ltd. continues to dominate the material jetting segment with its PolyJet technology, offering multi-material and full-color capabilities that are widely used in prototyping and dental applications. 3D Systems, Inc. remains a key competitor, leveraging its MultiJet Printing (MJP) platform to deliver high-precision parts for medical and industrial use. In the binder jetting space, ExOne Company (now part of Desktop Metal) and voxeljet AG are recognized for their large-format systems and expertise in metal and sand printing, catering to automotive and foundry sectors.
Emerging innovators are reshaping the market with novel approaches and disruptive technologies. HP Inc. has expanded its Jet Fusion platform, introducing new materials and automation features that enhance throughput and lower per-part costs, making it attractive for production-scale applications. Startups such as XJet Ltd. are pioneering nanoparticle jetting, enabling the production of intricate ceramic and metal components with exceptional detail and surface finish. Meanwhile, Carbon, Inc. and Digital Alloys, Inc. are exploring hybrid and direct metal jetting processes, pushing the boundaries of speed and material performance.
Collaboration and strategic partnerships are also shaping the competitive landscape. Major players are increasingly partnering with material suppliers, software developers, and end-users to accelerate innovation and address specific industry needs. For example, Stratasys Ltd. has formed alliances with leading chemical companies to expand its material portfolio, while HP Inc. collaborates with manufacturing service providers to scale up production capabilities.
As the market matures, competition is expected to intensify, with differentiation driven by advancements in print speed, material versatility, and integration with digital manufacturing ecosystems. The interplay between established giants and agile startups will continue to fuel innovation, shaping the future trajectory of jetting additive manufacturing technologies.
Technology Deep Dive: Inkjet, Binder Jetting, and Material Jetting Advances
Jetting additive manufacturing technologies have seen significant advancements in recent years, particularly in the domains of inkjet, binder jetting, and material jetting. These processes share a common principle: selectively depositing droplets of material or binder onto a build platform to create parts layer by layer. However, each technology has unique mechanisms and applications, and recent innovations are pushing their capabilities further in 2025.
Inkjet 3D Printing has evolved from its origins in 2D printing, now enabling the precise deposition of photopolymers and other functional materials. Modern inkjet systems, such as those developed by Stratasys Ltd., utilize multiple printheads to jet different materials and colors simultaneously, allowing for the creation of multi-material, full-color parts with fine detail. Advances in printhead technology and material formulations have improved resolution, surface finish, and mechanical properties, making inkjet 3D printing suitable for prototyping, dental, and medical applications.
Binder Jetting has made notable progress in both speed and material diversity. In this process, a liquid binder is selectively deposited onto a powder bed, bonding particles together to form a solid part. Companies like The ExOne Company and Desktop Metal, Inc. have introduced systems capable of processing metals, ceramics, and sand, expanding the technology’s reach into tooling, casting, and end-use metal part production. Recent developments focus on increasing throughput, reducing post-processing steps, and improving part density and strength through optimized binder chemistries and sintering protocols.
Material Jetting stands out for its ability to deposit multiple build and support materials with high precision. This technology, exemplified by 3D Systems, Inc. and Stratasys Ltd., enables the fabrication of complex geometries with smooth surfaces and intricate internal features. In 2025, material jetting systems are leveraging advanced printhead designs and new photopolymer formulations to achieve faster build speeds, enhanced mechanical properties, and improved biocompatibility for medical devices and anatomical models.
Across all jetting technologies, the integration of AI-driven process monitoring, closed-loop feedback, and real-time quality control is further enhancing reliability and repeatability. As these innovations continue, jetting additive manufacturing is poised to address a broader range of industrial, medical, and consumer applications with unprecedented speed, accuracy, and material versatility.
Application Analysis: Aerospace, Healthcare, Automotive, and Beyond
Jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, which include material jetting and binder jetting, have seen significant adoption across diverse industries due to their precision, versatility, and ability to process a wide range of materials. In the aerospace sector, jetting AM is leveraged for producing lightweight, complex components such as brackets, ducts, and tooling. The technology’s capacity for high-resolution fabrication enables the creation of intricate geometries that are difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing. Companies like The Boeing Company and Airbus SE have integrated jetting AM into their prototyping and production workflows, particularly for non-critical parts where rapid iteration and customization are advantageous.
In healthcare, jetting AM is revolutionizing the production of patient-specific medical devices, surgical guides, and anatomical models. The technology’s ability to print multi-material and full-color objects is particularly valuable for pre-surgical planning and educational purposes. For example, Stratasys Ltd. offers PolyJet systems that enable the fabrication of highly detailed, biocompatible models, supporting both clinical and research applications. Additionally, binder jetting is being explored for the direct fabrication of metal implants and dental prosthetics, offering a pathway to cost-effective, customized healthcare solutions.
The automotive industry benefits from jetting AM through rapid prototyping, tooling, and the production of end-use parts. Automakers such as BMW Group and Ford Motor Company utilize jetting technologies to accelerate design cycles, reduce tooling costs, and enable the manufacture of lightweight, complex components. Material jetting’s high surface quality and dimensional accuracy are particularly suited for interior parts, lighting components, and functional prototypes.
Beyond these sectors, jetting AM is expanding into consumer goods, electronics, and even the construction industry. Companies like HP Inc. are pushing the boundaries with multi-material and color jetting for customized products, while research institutions are exploring binder jetting for large-scale applications such as architectural elements and molds. As material portfolios and process reliability continue to improve, jetting AM technologies are poised to play a pivotal role in the digital transformation of manufacturing across a growing array of industries.
Regional Trends: North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Rest of World
Jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, which include material jetting and binder jetting, are experiencing varied growth trajectories across global regions, shaped by industrial priorities, regulatory environments, and investment in research and development.
North America remains a leader in jetting AM adoption, driven by robust aerospace, automotive, and healthcare sectors. The United States, in particular, benefits from strong government support and a concentration of AM innovators such as Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems, Inc.. The region’s focus on high-value, complex parts and rapid prototyping continues to fuel demand for jetting technologies, especially in medical device and dental applications.
Europe is characterized by a collaborative ecosystem involving research institutions, manufacturers, and end-users. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are at the forefront, with significant investments in industrial-scale jetting AM for automotive and aerospace applications. Organizations such as EOS GmbH and Renishaw plc are advancing binder jetting and material jetting processes, while the European Union’s regulatory emphasis on sustainability is encouraging the development of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems.
Asia-Pacific is witnessing rapid expansion, led by China, Japan, and South Korea. The region’s growth is propelled by government initiatives supporting advanced manufacturing and the increasing presence of local AM equipment manufacturers. Companies like Farsoon Technologies and DM3D Technology are expanding their jetting AM portfolios, targeting both domestic and international markets. The adoption is particularly strong in consumer electronics, dental, and industrial tooling sectors, with a growing emphasis on cost-effective, high-throughput solutions.
Rest of World regions, including Latin America, the Middle East, and Africa, are at earlier stages of jetting AM adoption. Growth is primarily seen in educational and research institutions, with gradual uptake in industrial sectors. Initiatives by organizations such as Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa are fostering local expertise and infrastructure, though challenges remain in terms of capital investment and skilled workforce development.
Overall, regional trends in jetting additive manufacturing technologies reflect a dynamic interplay of industrial demand, policy support, and technological innovation, with North America and Europe leading in high-value applications, Asia-Pacific driving volume growth, and the Rest of World regions building foundational capabilities for future expansion.
Investment & Funding Landscape: Startups, M&A, and Venture Capital
The investment and funding landscape for jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies in 2025 is characterized by robust venture capital (VC) activity, strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and a growing number of startups entering the market. Jetting AM, which includes technologies such as material jetting and binder jetting, has attracted significant attention due to its ability to produce high-resolution, multi-material, and full-color parts, as well as its scalability for industrial applications.
Venture capital investment in jetting AM startups has accelerated, with funds targeting companies that demonstrate advancements in printhead technology, material development, and process automation. Notable VC-backed startups include XJet Ltd., which specializes in NanoParticle Jetting for metal and ceramic parts, and voxeljet AG, known for its large-format binder jetting systems. These companies have secured funding rounds to expand R&D, scale production, and enter new markets, reflecting investor confidence in the sector’s growth potential.
Strategic M&A activity has also shaped the competitive landscape. Established industry players such as Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems Corporation have pursued acquisitions to enhance their jetting technology portfolios and accelerate innovation. For example, Stratasys’s acquisition of inkjet technology firms has enabled it to broaden its PolyJet offerings, while 3D Systems has invested in binder jetting capabilities to address industrial-scale production needs.
Startups continue to play a pivotal role in driving innovation. Companies like Digital Metal (a subsidiary of Höganäs AB) and HP Inc. have introduced novel jetting platforms and materials, attracting both private and corporate investment. These startups often collaborate with established manufacturers and research institutions to accelerate commercialization and validate new applications in sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare.
Looking ahead, the funding environment for jetting AM technologies is expected to remain dynamic in 2025, with increased interest from both traditional manufacturing investors and technology-focused VCs. The convergence of material science breakthroughs, digital manufacturing trends, and end-user demand for customized, high-performance parts will likely sustain strong investment and M&A activity in this segment.
Challenges and Barriers: Technical, Regulatory, and Supply Chain Issues
Jetting additive manufacturing technologies, such as material jetting and binder jetting, have gained traction for their ability to produce complex geometries and multi-material parts with high resolution. However, their broader adoption faces several challenges and barriers across technical, regulatory, and supply chain domains.
Technical Challenges: One of the primary technical hurdles is the limited range of printable materials, especially for applications requiring high-performance polymers, metals, or ceramics. Achieving consistent droplet formation and deposition is critical for part accuracy and surface finish, but issues like nozzle clogging, droplet misplacement, and material compatibility persist. Additionally, post-processing requirements—such as curing, sintering, or infiltration—can introduce variability and increase production time. The scalability of jetting processes for larger parts or higher throughput remains a concern, as maintaining uniformity and precision over extended build areas is technically demanding.
Regulatory Barriers: The regulatory landscape for jetting-based additive manufacturing is still evolving. Industries such as aerospace, medical devices, and automotive require rigorous certification and qualification of both materials and processes. The lack of standardized testing protocols and material traceability complicates compliance with regulatory bodies like the Federal Aviation Administration and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Furthermore, intellectual property concerns related to digital part files and process parameters can hinder collaboration and technology transfer.
Supply Chain Issues: The supply chain for jetting additive manufacturing is not as mature as that for traditional manufacturing. Sourcing high-quality, jettable materials with consistent properties is challenging, as few suppliers meet the stringent requirements for purity and rheology. Equipment maintenance and spare parts availability, especially for proprietary printheads and nozzles, can lead to operational downtime. Additionally, the integration of jetting technologies into existing manufacturing workflows often requires new software, hardware, and training, increasing the complexity and cost of adoption.
Addressing these challenges will require coordinated efforts among technology developers, regulatory agencies, and supply chain partners. Initiatives by organizations such as ASTM International to develop standards for additive manufacturing processes and materials are crucial steps toward broader industrial acceptance and reliability.
Future Outlook: Disruptive Trends and Opportunities Through 2030
The future of jetting additive manufacturing (AM) technologies through 2030 is poised for significant transformation, driven by advances in materials science, printhead engineering, and digital process control. Jetting AM, which includes material jetting and binder jetting, is expected to benefit from disruptive trends that will expand its industrial relevance and open new market opportunities.
One of the most promising trends is the development of multi-material and functional printing capabilities. Emerging printhead designs and ink formulations are enabling the deposition of multiple materials in a single build, allowing for the creation of complex, functionally graded, or embedded electronic components. This is particularly relevant for industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, where integrated functionality and lightweighting are critical. Companies like Stratasys Ltd. and 3D Systems, Inc. are actively investing in multi-material jetting platforms, aiming to deliver parts with tailored mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties.
Another disruptive trend is the rapid expansion of binder jetting for metal and ceramic parts. Binder jetting is gaining traction as a cost-effective alternative to traditional manufacturing for high-volume production, especially in sectors like automotive and consumer goods. The technology’s ability to produce complex geometries at scale, combined with post-processing advancements such as sintering and infiltration, is closing the gap with conventional metalworking. HP Inc. and GE Additive are leading efforts to industrialize binder jetting, focusing on process reliability, part quality, and material diversity.
Digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI) are also set to play a pivotal role. The integration of real-time process monitoring, closed-loop control, and AI-driven optimization will enhance repeatability and reduce defects, making jetting AM more attractive for mission-critical applications. Furthermore, the adoption of digital supply chains and on-demand manufacturing models will be accelerated by jetting’s speed and flexibility, supporting trends toward mass customization and distributed production.
Looking ahead to 2030, sustainability will be a key driver. Jetting AM’s inherent material efficiency and potential for recycling unused feedstock align with global efforts to reduce waste and carbon emissions. As regulatory and market pressures mount, companies leveraging jetting technologies will be well-positioned to meet evolving environmental standards and customer expectations.
Strategic Recommendations for Stakeholders
Strategic recommendations for stakeholders in the jetting additive manufacturing (AM) sector in 2025 should focus on technological innovation, market positioning, and ecosystem collaboration. As jetting AM technologies—such as material jetting and binder jetting—continue to mature, stakeholders including manufacturers, suppliers, end-users, and investors must align their strategies to capitalize on emerging opportunities and address evolving challenges.
- Invest in R&D and Material Development: Continuous investment in research and development is crucial for advancing printhead technology, expanding compatible material portfolios, and improving process reliability. Stakeholders should collaborate with leading technology providers such as Stratasys Ltd. and HP Inc. to access cutting-edge material jetting solutions and leverage their expertise in multi-material and color printing.
- Target High-Value Applications: Jetting AM excels in producing high-resolution, multi-material, and full-color parts, making it ideal for applications in healthcare, dental, electronics, and consumer goods. Stakeholders should focus on sectors where these capabilities offer clear advantages, such as patient-specific medical devices or complex electronic components, and work closely with end-users to tailor solutions to industry-specific needs.
- Enhance Post-Processing and Workflow Integration: To maximize the value proposition of jetting AM, stakeholders should invest in automated post-processing solutions and seamless integration with digital manufacturing workflows. Partnerships with companies like 3D Systems, Inc. can facilitate the adoption of end-to-end solutions, reducing manual labor and improving throughput.
- Promote Sustainability and Regulatory Compliance: As environmental regulations tighten, stakeholders must prioritize the development of sustainable materials and energy-efficient processes. Engaging with organizations such as UL Solutions for certification and compliance can enhance market acceptance and reduce barriers to adoption.
- Foster Ecosystem Collaboration: Building strategic alliances with software developers, material suppliers, and industry consortia can accelerate innovation and standardization. Participation in initiatives led by bodies like ASTM International ensures alignment with global standards and best practices.
By implementing these recommendations, stakeholders can strengthen their competitive position, drive adoption of jetting AM technologies, and contribute to the sustainable growth of the additive manufacturing industry in 2025 and beyond.
Sources & References
- Stratasys Ltd.
- 3D Systems, Inc.
- voxeljet AG
- ExOne Company
- XJet Ltd.
- Carbon, Inc.
- Digital Alloys, Inc.
- Desktop Metal, Inc.
- The Boeing Company
- Airbus SE
- EOS GmbH
- Renishaw plc
- Farsoon Technologies
- Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
- ASTM International
- GE Additive
- UL Solutions